ON AUGUST 23, 1896, the Cry of Pugadlawin occurred. It was then when Andres Bonifacio and the members of the Katipunan began to revolt against Spain. On August 1st of 1898, Emilio Aguinaldo asked United States Government to recognize the revolutionary government of the Filipinos.
On August 13, 1898, the mock Battle of Manila between the Spanish and American Forces happened such that Manila would not go to Philippine forces. It ended the Spanish-American War and marked the beginning of American colonization not just of Manila but the whole archipelago. Filipino revolutionaries under Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo felt betrayed as they would already have gained independence but with the mock battle, the country was transferred from Spanish Rule to the Americans.
On August 19, 1916, the US Congress enacted the Jones Law or Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916.
On August 4, 1964, Philippine Independence Day was designated to be on the 12th of June.
On August 21, 1983, former Senator Benigno S. Aquino Jr. was assassinated and the event led to demonstrations and protests until EDSA People Power Revolution. And we can go on and on.
‘History Week used to be celebrated every 15th to the 21st of September every year by virtue of Proclamation 1304 in 1974. It was repealed, and transferred to August and renamed History Month…’
NATIONAL HEROES DAY
August is such an important month in terms of historical events, but it was on February 16, 2012 that the month of August was declared History Month by virtue of Proclamation No. 339 signed by former President Benigno S. Aquino III.
History Week used to be celebrated every 15th to the 21st of September every year by virtue of Proclamation 1304 in 1974. It was repealed, and transferred to August and renamed History Month “to emphasize the most significant turning points in Philippine history, and concludes on August 30th as National Heroes Day.”
HISTOEX 2025
For this year, the premier government agency in charge of the celebrations, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), has prepared HistoEx 2025 with performances, interactive exhibitions, lectures, talks, games, booksale, shops, and reenactments on August 1-3 at the Quantum Skyview of a mall in Quezon City. Other government and nongovernment agencies also have their own ways of celebrating.
Why is it important to have one month dedicated to history?
It helps us remember, recognize, and honor the contributions, the struggles and victories of the individuals and groups of people that have taken part in our history. It raises awareness on the vital roles of various communities, fostering empathy and solidarity. It preserves and promotes cultural heritage and identity, recognizing important events and promoting understanding and inclusivity. It educates about the past, inspires us with stories on overcoming adversity, and encourages us to work towards a more equitable society. It could even encourage people to discover and preserve their personal and family histories which in turn, may be beneficial to the country.
History month is a powerful way to promote understanding by highlighting the diverse experiences and contributions that shaped our country.
How about our local histories? Maybe we can help in writing one where there is none.